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Double Play: It’s Just About… Life.

Yes, I saw how the Orioles game ended. And no, the title has nothing to do with that.

It’s about doubling down. I haven’t tried this one yet. Two for Sunday. Two blogs in one day. One here and the update which has already been posted on the Caringbridge.org site, (http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/debbiebrodinsky/journal) The book update can be found there.

The reason for a double play? Maybe because I’m sitting out here on a Sunday morning, on the deck of a house on this beautiful pond, and so, and rightly so, if I’m willing to pay attention to these things, I am inspired. Maybe because my WHY is getting bigger than me and when that happens, it’s not an “I want to” it’s an “I’ve got to”. But you can’t jump to the end, you just take the necessary steps to get there.

“Your life is like this. You don’t get a fully mature one. You get a small one and the opportunity to grow it – if you want to. Think small and your life’s likely to stay small. Think big and your life has a chance to grow big. The choice is yours. When you choose a big life, by default, you’ll have to go small to get there. You must survey your choices, narrow your options, line up your priorities, and do what matters most. You must go small. You must find your ONE thing.” – Gary Keller, from his book, The ONE Thing

I’m almost finished reading the book from which I just quoted. Another book under my belt this year, or maybe I should say under my feet, because it’s another step up to reaching the higher shelves in life, by standing on the books you read. I can’t tell you how that makes a difference, how it inspires me and re-ignites the passion each and every day. Life can get in the way, it always gets in the way, it always distracts and even tries to dissuade you from doing the hard work along the path to your purpose. Reading the permanent thoughts, perspective, realizations and ideas from others who are living the dream, reinforces the right you are given to live yours. You can’t just have a dream… you have to live one.

Over on the caringbridge site, (http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/debbiebrodinsky/journal), I introduced the chapter introductions for It Takes Two. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story. Another step forward on the journey to a dream. I want the same for you.

On the pages of this blog, or on the pages of the Journal on Caringbride I have shared emotion and my heart of hearts. Because there is no fear, because there cannot be fear to do so. And on the pages of The ONE Thing, it reinforces that thought: “Productive people thrive on emotional energy; it fills their heart with joy and makes them light on their feet.”

This morning, I am gazing out on a virtual canvas of inspiration, emotion and enlightenment. And it’s not every day I get to sit in this place, but if you take the time to notice the best all around you, in front of you, behind you, to the side, look for the opportunity to be inspired, to be fueled by the life all around you, if you can cut through the noise and focus on YOUR purpose, the world can change forever. You will be the one who makes it happen and others will be grateful to you for sharing that gift.

Make the conscious effort and double your efforts to do so.

Leave a mark and live a life that matters. That’s a double play to stand for all time.

Comments

Since I had trouble earlier posting in the Guestbook, I shall do so here:

You have more support than I think you might realize, Mark. You are well on your way…August is right around the corner. I can see you at a booksigning at Barnes ‘n Noble and beyond! I wish Debbie & you all the best of everything…good health numero uno.

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Love seeing new blogs hit the ground running like this one (by a dad no less), but I also urge anyone vaguely interested in blogging to stay tuned, I am. Good luck on your journey – glad that I am along for the ride.

Rachel Blaufeld

Great blog Mark! I always appreciate reading what you have to say. You are very gifted and talented and hopefully someday you’ll not just blog, but write a book.

Stephen Koncurat

I’m definitely along for the ride. We’ve all seen how much damage the written word can inflict. More positive writers are needed. And I love how you are using your personal experiences – those with your wife and children – and your gift of writing to open eyes and to inspire others.

Victoria Endicott

Absolutely beautifully written! The girls in your life must be very proud of you. Thanks for sharing Mark, I look forward to reading more!

Gina Glick Jolson

Very shortly this site will be famous amid all blogging and site-building users, due to it’s pleasant posts.

Leila Galloway

Absolutely beautiful! Are you at all thinking of penning a book? You’ve got a fan base out there that really thinks you should Mark. You write so eloquently. Glad that I got onto this site.

Marilyn Lefkowitz

Mark, You are truly a gifted writer and obviously, a special father and husband . Always a delight to read your words.

I’m speechless…beautiful words flow from your heart just like a gentle waterfall into a tranquil stream… thank you so much for the friend request I was blessed the day I clicked confirm.

Lynne Turner Dorsey

From your first writing in 4th grade entitled “People” which was published in the school newspaper, you have always been able to write. Never more so than when you started “Caringbridge” and now your blog, everyone who reads says what a wonderful writer you are. Our DREAM for you is to become an author and encourage people every day. You are by the far the best and we hope and pray you reach your dream.

Bonnie Brodinsky

I know you always thank us for reading but I would like to say thanks for writing.

Stuart Abell

Great piece. You are an inspiration!

Rob Commodari

Mark I just wanted to let you know that you are succeeding in your “ultimate goal”. I have gained so much from your blogs. I look forward to reading them for the special lift that they give me. Thank you.

Amy F.

I love waking up and starting my day with my coffee and your blog! It a great way to start my day with positive uplifting thoughts!! It puts me in a positive frame of mind throughout the day and allows me to reflect on my personal life, make changes, and grow !!!

Gayle Blank

You are quite talented Mark. Thanks for sharing!

Cynthia

I always look forward to your Blog Mark. Thanks for sharing and as you always do, make it a great / remarkable Day!

Chuck Connolly

Thanks for your Blog Mark. It is fun, encouraging and a nice break from a day full of ups and downs.

Jackie Hetrick

With my busy schedule, there is (sadly) little time for reading. But I have two must-reads every time I come across them, the sports section and your blogs. Keep inspiring and following your dream!

Ed Nemec

Mark, you are a truly remarkable individual. You do speak from your heart, I can’t wait to read your book. You are an incredible writer.

Debbie Press

Mark, I am glad I clicked on your post this morning, which lead me to your writing, your goal.
Would like to connect. This speaks to me.

Aileen Braverman

I can’t wait to read the book. I have followed all the blogs and feel so good that I know u guys. You make me cry but you make me laugh too. All the very best to you!

Beverlee Rendelman

Connect with Mark!

WOW!!! It Takes 2 is a must read for anyone who has known someone diagnosed with cancer or other life threatening disease. This is the real story of a family lead by an incredible woman, Debbie Brodinsky, who took radical steps to beat the breast cancer beast. The story is told by her husband, Mark Brodinsky, through journal entries he kept starting with diagnosis through one year cancer free. This author's unique ability to pour his heart out onto the page draws you in from the beginning and holds you until the very end.

Thanks to Mark and Debbie Brodinsky for this gift...I have a new perspective on what it means to be a breast cancer survivor. You are a hero, Debbie Brodinsky!

TeeBThree
September 25, 2013

This book gives a heartfelt, in depth description of what it is like to go through breast cancer with the one you love. It is beautifully written and I felt as though I was living it with them! I highly recommend this book!

Jgs17September 24, 2013

In It Takes 2, Mark Brodinsky windows us into his world where his wife, the cancer patient, is not the only victim. Part journal, part roadmap, It Takes 2 goes to the real humanity of facing the mortality of one's better half. Mark's candid perspective, love, and fierce intention resonate with hope in a story which is about much more than cancer. Mark himself is perhaps the most heroic character for the way he appreciates this life and so many of us in it...as he says, "thanks for caring."

Réné PallaceSeptember 24, 2013

It Takes Two: A Spouse's Story by Mark Brodinsky should be read by every person who is experiencing serious illness or injury or by a loved one of someone who is experiencing either of those situations. The book is an eloquent testament to the power of love and the healing energy derived from the belief that things will get better. There is not one word of "poor me" from the author or his wife who suffered breast cancer and the radical surgery she elected to have to beat the cancer. Rather, the book is a celebration of the courage displayed by them both in seeing it through.

The book also encourages readers to speak and write down their true feelings and be validated in them. John Mackovic writing in the Palm Springs, CA Desert Sun on November 2, 2013 quoted author and artist Doe Zantamata who said, " To be happy, you don't have to do anything new. You just have to remember how to believe again...Believe everything good is possible. Believe in your dreams. Believe in people. Believe in love. But most of all...believe in yourself." The author, his wife, their family and extended family and friends never stopped believing in his wife's recovery, and I think, in themselves. Read this book and believe.

Paul A. RiecksNovember 4, 2013

This book is a must read for anyone with a family member with breast cancer. It takes you through the spouse's perspective from diagnosis to recovery. Mark journaled his wife's journey and put all of his emotions out there. It is beautifully written and inspiring to anyone going through breast cancer. Thank you, Mark for sharing Debbie's story.

Jmu1109October 23, 2013

A friend recommended this book. This was a great perspective of a man standing beside his partner and passing along to the reader fear, hope, useful information and a broader story than his own. I loved Vinnie the tattoo artist. This is a great book. Thanks for sharing, Mark and "thanks for caring"

Blahsan

This book is a must read. What sets this book apart from other books about surviving breast cancer is that it is told by the husband and his point of view, not from the survivor. At times sad, at times poignant but even through the worst of it you can always feel the love he has for his wife, her strength and the strength of their extended family and friends. The posts that are included from their friends and family lets you really into the heart and strength of the family. I would recommend this book to anyone who is currently going through this, whether you are the person or the caregiver. I also recommend this book to anyone who has a friend that has been or is currently going through their fight now. It was an eye opener for me.

L. BogashSeven Valleys, PA

There isn't a shortage of books about breast cancer, but most are written from the perspective of the person who has battled cancer or a physician or other expert. What an enlightening experience to read about breast cancer from a husband and caregiver's perspective! Not only does the author give us insight into his wife's experience and emotions, but he openly shares and reveals his love, compassion, support, and, yes, sometimes anger at the disease as he stands by his wife's side during their journey to beat the beast. Your story may not be the same, but I guarantee if you have a loved one battling cancer, you won't go wrong reading It Takes 2.

PattiMSeptember 25, 2013

From the moment I opened this book I never stopped reading. Mark invites the reader to come along on this journey that his family went through. I cried, laughed and learned so much. This book will give comfort and knowledge to those going through similar situations. Most importantly, Mark and his family never give up. They get knocked down and get right back up. They fought cancer together and with their strength, determination and will to prevail... They do!

I’m beginning to believe it’s the only way. To live a life of meaning, of happiness, of fulfillment you need to work on you first. Just like success, happiness cannot be pursued, you cannot hope it will happen, you need to have a plan and weave it like a tapestry through your life. Get the […]

Sometimes it’s hard to find the words, but you must, to make it stand for all time. That’s the reason I wrote the book, It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story, (check our Amazon ranking at the bottom) and last night I had the honor to stand all night long, to sell and […]